Congratulations!! If you are reading this blog you already own or lease a horse or are about to begin the wonderful experience. It is such a privilege as well as HUGE responsibility. There is so much more to horses than just riding. You are taking on the care of another live creature. Please understand what you are taking on before making the commitment.
Our farm facilities has the option of full care (for an additional cost), which includes daily grooming and unlimited use of the walker. This is essential for our riders with limited time to spend at the barn. Cedarhill has established relationships with veterinarians, equine dentists, farriers, and other service providers. We do the best we can in alerting you when we call for their services on behalf of your horse.
Ideally you want to ride 4 or 5 times a week. Depending on your goals your riding time may need to focus more on fitness building rather than pleasure riding or trail riding. Regardless, please do not ever jump or do lead changes unless you are in a lesson. This is for your safety as well as your horse’s. Poles or cavallettis flipped to the lowest level can be set out a minimum of 3 strides and an unlimited maximum of strides to practice track, rhythm and pace. Poles closer than 3 strides need to be set by an instructor to ensure that they are comfortable for your horse to go through. A free App called Equi-lab on your phone is a fun way to track your ride. Ideally you walk, trot and canter all over the ring, with lots of circles, spiraling in and out, serpentines, and changes of directions. Lots of transitions, as well as two point position and work without stirrups should be part of your ride.
Grooming as often as possible will not only give your horse a beautiful coat, but will allow you to learn the ins and outs of their conformation. It is very important to know how your horse is built so you can recognize changes. You need to rub your hands all over them feeling for heat, cuts, and swelling. While picking feet check for thrush, soft spots, loose nails, twisted or sprung shoes. Consult with your trainer, barn manager, vet and/or farrier for any suspicious changes. Grooming your horse should be done daily to ensure their health. If you can’t do this, let us know and we can, for an additional charge, provide full care.
When an injury or missing shoe requires your horse to be stall bound make sure you hand walk and graze them. It is hard on them to be confined to a stall for 24 hours. They will also appreciate the extra currying and grooming- since they can’t stretch and roll as much when confined. Make sure you use a chain lead rope to give you extra control – when you are taking them out of their stall since they may be fresh!!
Again, congratulations on your new lease or purchase. Don’t be overwhelmed of these responsibilities but understand them! A well taken care of horse is evident by the sheen of their coat, the whiteness of their socks, the condition of their hooves, and the expression when they see you. Riding is a very small part of the equation when you take on ownership of a horse. It doesn’t matter how much homework you have or that your friends are going to the movies. You have a live animal that needs you too!! If you can’t make it to the farm to care for your horse make arrangements for it to be ridden, groomed, and treated. Don’t forget your horse!! Good luck and happy riding!!